Regional Office of Education 47

REGISTER NOW - Summer Book Study The School of Hope REGISTER HERE : https://forms.fillout.com/t/vUvAVnsZmnus?id=recItLazTICiZrq7Z Be part of a thought-provoking virtual book study on The School of Hope: The Journey from Trauma and Despair to Achievement, Happiness, and Resilience by Cathleen Beachboard. This book explores how educators can harness the science of hope to transform schools, empower students, and create a culture of resilience. Throughout this study, we will engage in meaningful discussions about practical strategies to support students who have experienced adversity, foster a sense of belonging, and use hope as a powerful tool for academic and personal growth. Each session will focus on key themes from the book, encouraging reflection and action steps to implement in our schools and communities. Participants are responsible for securing their copy of the book. Please contact Grace Heimerdinger-Baake at gheimerdingerbaake@roe47.org with any questions.

SIGN UP NOW! Induction & Mentoring Training July 21st, 29th & 31st REGISTER HERE : https://forms.fillout.com/t/vUvAVnsZmnus?id=rec2lmRK6IW5avcRG This Induction and Mentor Training (July 21, 29, 31) is designed to train mentors who are working with a beginning teacher (year 1 or year 2 or in a new teaching area or new district). Topics reviewed will be—school code on the do’s and don’t’s of mentoring, the generational footprint, the adult learner, coaching, using supportive language, creating and analyzing observation tools, how does your evaluation tool connect with new teacher evaluation and mentoring and self-evaluation. Participants will practice doing observations using Danielson and district evaluation tools to help the new teacher grow. Opportunities for mentors to problem-solve situations and issues that may occur in their mentoring experience will be discussed and practiced. The goal is to give the mentor teacher the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to bring conversations with their mentees about teaching practice to a deeper, more meaningful level. The mentor will gain ideas of how to support, coach, and help their mentee grow professionally. This involves three 6-hour instructional days 8:30 am-2:30 pm Workshops will take place at Lee, Ogle, Whiteside Regional Office of Education located at 2214 E. 4th Street, Suite B, Sterling, IL 61081 (next door to Sterling Goodwill).

Birth to Five Illinois: Region 47 works in Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside Counties to engage with the community. Through engagement efforts, we work to understand how families are accessing Early Childhood Education and Care systems, inform decision makers of families’ needs, and bring community members together to take action to advance Early Childhood Education and Care. With a strong emphasis on community collaboration, we work with a Family Council of local parents and an Action Council of community stakeholders that partner with region 47’s Early Childhood Collaboration, the Sauk Valley STARS.

JOB OPENING : C4C PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER Dedicated to student achievement in school and life. Instilling hope for a future, self confidence now, and resilience forever! RESPONSIBILITIES Requirements Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Teaching Certificate Salary Range of 39,850.70-$40,465.61 plus full paid TRS benefits for an approximate total salary of $48,610.03 Essential Job Functions ● Develop, plan and implement a daily physical education curriculum which is developmentally appropriate and provides social, emotional, physical and cognitive learning experience for all students ● Maintain accurate records to include lesson plans, daily schedules, anecdotal records, parent contacts, assessments, and attendance records ● Monitor teacher assistant(s) ● Follow proper safety guidelines to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students at all times. Maintain a safe, attractive, and an organized classroom environment ● Use trauma informed techniques when communicating with students. Must be capable of maintaining a positive attitude, displaying a caring concern towards children, parents and coworkers. ● Provide evaluative feedback to Program Director ● Maintain accurate files and records for each student, including IEPs if needed, Locator cards, etc. ● Maintain contact with parents/guardians. Inform families of events, changes, successes and concerns. ● Monitor student attendance and contact parents as needed. Training Participate in CPI and Boys Town training and implement those concepts/techniques/documentation as needed. Also can request training based on individual interests and duties. For more information contact Josh Knuth , Assistant Regional Superintendent of Schools To apply please send cover letter, resume, and references to Josh Knuth at jknuth@roe47.org

The ROE has offered PAT to families since 1989. Since then, thousands of children and families have enrolled in and participated in home visiting services. In the early years of the program, about 350 families a year would participate. Families could also participate starting prentally at 6 months gestation and continue in the program until Kindergarten entry. Over the years, Parents as Teachers has changed from a once-monthly home visit to the more intensive twice-monthly home visits that it is today. Funding and model expectations have also changed. Now, families can enroll when they find out they are expecting and can continue in the program until the child turns three and is eligible to transition to preschool. With increased intensity and different levels of funding, we now enroll about 75 families with 90 children annually. During home visits, home visitors focus on parent-child interactions to promote positive parenting behaviors that support child development. As home visitors partner with families, they provide research-based information around developmental topics such as sleep, discipline, bonding and attachment, feeding and nutrition, health and safety, transitions, and routines and connect these developmental topics and parenting behaviors such as designing/guiding, responding, nurturing, communicating, and supporting learning in response to the child's developmental needs. Home visitors also support the development of healthy physical and emotional environments by strengthening each family in the categories of basic essentials, education and employment, physical health, mental health and wellness, early care and education, relationships with family and friends, and recreation and enrichment. Each home visit is individualized to and guided by the parent. The typical home visitor works as a home visitor for 3 years before moving on. Our staff combined have worked for our Parents as Teachers Program for 73 years!

The ROE 47 Office will be closed in honor of Memorial Day! @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47

Professional Learning Institute: Making Sense of Three-Dimensional Teaching and Learning Using OpenSciEd K-12 Science Curricular Materials REGISTER NOW : June 3rd ! Join the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) for an immersive, full-day professional learning experience designed for K–12 science educators. This institute focuses on enhancing your understanding and application of three-dimensional, phenomenon-driven teaching and learning using OpenSciEd curricular materials. Through engaging, hands-on sessions and collaborative discussions, participants will: Explore key instructional shifts required by the NGSS and similar standards Deepen their knowledge of how to implement high-quality, three-dimensional science instruction Engage with OpenSciEd materials and instructional routines adaptable across grade levels Walk away with practical strategies for immediate classroom use Whether you’re already using OpenSciEd or just beginning to explore three-dimensional learning, this workshop provides valuable tools and insights to support student-centered science instruction. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow educators, enhance your teaching practice, and bring phenomena to life in your classroom! Register HERE :https://forms.fillout.com/t/vUvAVnsZmnus?id=rec2cLqoZkoR5rSqp

Check out ROE 47's Summer Learning Opportunities! Click HERE to view the Summer Catalog. https:/www.roe47.org/page/pl-opportunities-workshops @RegionalOffice47 #RegionalOffice47

3D Printing: Design, Slice, and Create with Tinkercad & 3D Slicers! June 5th, 8:30 am - 2:30 pm Register HERE : https://forms.fillout.com/t/vUvAVnsZmnus?id=recSba2iq2c0AcFFk Explore the exciting world of 3D printing in this hands-on workshop, designed for both beginners and intermediate users. We'll start by mastering the basics of 3D design using Tinkercad, and then move on to slicing with common slicing software. Discover the essential steps to prepare your digital designs for physical creation. For those with some experience, we’ll dive a little deeper into design techniques and slicing strategies to optimize your prints, without overwhelming you with advanced technicalities. Learn how to translate your digital designs into tangible objects, gaining practical experience and confidence. This interactive session will equip you with the knowledge to bring your creative projects to life, regardless of your 3D printer.

Congratulations to the Regional Center for Change class of 2025. From left to right are Lilah Sullivan, Gabby Gonzales, Jaylah Green, Sonja Lopez, Clayton Pyskaty, and Ari Tate.

🌞 Summer Fun & Learning at the Dixon YMCA! 🌞 The YMCA in Dixon has immediate summer childcare openings for preschoolers aged 3 to 5 and is open to all families in Dixon and the surrounding areas. Exciting Summer Bonus! For six of the twelve weeks this summer, eligible children will receive free preschool during the day. The YMCA Childcare Center is open from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., allowing flexibility for families. Children can attend anytime within these hours and will participate in preschool activities from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day. This is a fantastic opportunity to keep our youngest learners engaged and learning throughout the summer months. To register or for more information, contact Heather Grobe @ 815.288.1124.

Administrator Academy – Literacies of the Digital World: Teaching Technology Skills for the 21st Century June 18, 2025 8:30 AM-2:30 PM Registration Required - CLICK HERE This workshop is designed to help participants understand the importance of computer science, computer literacy, digital literacy, AI literacy, and digital citizenship and how these skills are necessary for all students to be successful in the classroom, their careers, and for the rest of their lives. Participants will learn the differences between computer literacy, digital literacy, AI literacy, and digital citizenship and identify the skills all students need for each of these important components of technology use. Throughout the workshop, participants will learn how and when students should be exposed to these different components. Lastly, participants will complete a plan of action for implementation in their school and/or district.

CONGRATULATIONS to ROE 47's Mary Escamilla for being recognized by the Northwest Region of Illinois Principals as a recipient of the Non-Certified Support Personnel Leadership Award! Mary is the Licensure Specialist & Office Manager and a wealth of knowledge. We are so lucky to have her supporting our schools and educators!

Join Us for Workplace Wednesday! We are looking for businesses to participate July 9 and July 23 1-1/2-2 hours tour and talk with our teachers about careers and jobs to share with their students. We are looking for teachers who want to learn about careers from businesses. We're excited for our 9th year of Workplace Wednesday, a unique initiative connecting educators with local businesses to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. What is Workplace Wednesday? Workplace Wednesday offers teachers the opportunity to visit local businesses, gaining first hand insight into various careers and the skills required. This experience enables educators to craft real-world lessons, guiding students toward local employment opportunities and fostering a robust talent pipeline within our community. Why Should Your Business Participate? Shape Future Talent: Influence the next generation by showcasing the careers available within your organization. Support Local Workforce Development: Encourage students to pursue careers locally, ensuring a steady stream of skilled employees. Get Involved! Join us in this impactful program and play a pivotal role in preparing students for successful careers right here in our region. To participate or learn more, contact Gail Wright gwright@roe47.org at Lee, Ogle, Whiteside Regional Office of Education. Let's work together to build a brighter future for our students and our community!

The Area 2 SEL Hub is thrilled to offer scholarships for our third annual SEL Summer Symposium, themed "A Celebration of Resilience," on June 12, 2025! 🎉 This event will bring together educators to explore powerful strategies that support the heart and mind of every learner. Join us at the Embassy Suites in Rockford, IL, for a day filled with inspiration, dynamic breakout sessions, and opportunities to connect with others. We are thrilled to welcome renowned keynote speaker Michael Bonner, a trailblazer in leadership and organizational culture. Scholarship recipients will receive free event registration. Don't miss this chance to learn, grow, and be inspired! Apply today! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScvHw80R-DXrxNV3x2tfSF8IZTvVh-tFYBdrvYr53xSbp0MKg/viewform

2025 ROE 47 MARIGOLD AWARD WINNER - Bree Naftzger CONGRATULATIONS to Bree Naftzger from East Coloma-Nelson. Bree was nominated by Julie McCord for the Marigold Award! " I am nominating Bree Naftzger, a dedicated 5th-grade teacher, for embodying so many qualities that make an exceptional educator. Not only does she excel in the classroom, but she goes above and beyond, and helps to make our school a great place to be! As a colleague who shares band students with her, I’ve seen firsthand how Bree makes every student feel seen and heard. She has a unique ability to connect with each student, making them feel valued both academically and personally. Her classroom is a safe space where students can take risks, ask questions, and grow without fear of judgment. Her love for learning is evident not only in her own professional development but also in how she shares that passion with her students. Bree creates a dynamic, engaging classroom environment that encourages curiosity and a love for discovery. She’s always finding new ways to make learning fun and relevant, ensuring that every student is motivated to do their best. Bree’s mood-boosting energy is contagious. She has a natural positivity that lifts the spirits of everyone around her, whether it’s students, colleagues, or parents. She approaches every day with a can-do attitude and manages to turn challenges into opportunities. Her enthusiasm is palpable, and she spreads that joy to everyone she interacts with. Not only is Bree an outstanding teacher, but she also coaches Rock Falls High School Volleyball in her ""free time"" and raises a family. Her commitment to her family, students, and players, is truly inspiring. Her ability to juggle these responsibilities while still maintaining a positive, energized attitude is nothing short of remarkable. Bree is also deeply community-minded. She proudly bleeds Rock Falls Green and Black, but also East Coloma- Nelson Red and White! Bree went to school here as a student, and she takes pride in that! She sees the big picture. Whether she’s coaching her volleyball team or collaborating with other teachers, she fosters a sense of teamwork and unity, and wants the best for ALL. She instills the importance of working together and supporting one another, in the classroom and beyond. She sure makes my job as the beginning band director enjoyable, as she encourages all her students to try playing an instrument in the band! Bree is very supportive of all the different activities and sports here, even if it means that she might have to move HER schedule around a bit to accommodate. I feel very fortunate to work alongside someone who makes such a positive impact on everyone around her!"

CONGRATULATIONS to Enrica Jacobs from Lincoln Elementary. Enrica was nominated by Tanaya Cook for the Marigold Award ! Enrica knows how to build incredible bonds with students. Her energy is contagious and she is someone that students seek out just to be next to her. Enrica always has tools with her to help overwhelmed students feel better and regulate. She is authentically herself and the students love her for it.

CONGRATULATIONS to Liz Nehrkorn from Jefferson. School. Liz was nominated by Reganne Springman for the Marigold Award! I have been able to work with and watch Liz teach for the last 4 years. She does a great job helping students to do their best. Liz has helped students to grow with their math skills and become more confident in their ability. She has also helped me to grow as well to prepare to become a teacher. Liz is also always willing to help anyone that needs it.

CONGRATULATIONS to Susanna Riley from Sterling Public Schools. Susanna was nominated by Becky Haas for the Marigold Award ! "Susanna is one of the kindest and most dedicated team members we have had the privilege of working with. As the district physical therapist, she has built strong, positive relationships with numerous student teams and families. Her uplifting energy and warm demeanor are felt the moment she enters a room. Susanna consistently approaches challenges with a solution-oriented mindset and serves as an exceptional role model for new staff. She demonstrates how to effectively support students' needs through her expertise and compassionate approach. Susanna is truly a Marigold—an inspiring presence in our district—and she is most deserving of recognition as one of the very best."

CONGRATULATIONS toSue Ligons and Kim Hunter from Morrison Junior High School. They were nominated by Joe Robbins for the Marigold Award! I have decided to nominate both of these ladies at the same time since they work so closely and so well together and if you were to give one award you have to give the other one as well. Sue and Kim work mainly with our students in special education. Both of these ladies have the patience of saints and do everything to ensure their students have all of the opportunities to become better students and people. They have worked together for many years and it shows. They create safe environments where the students they work with can ask questions without being judged. The students they work with are successful and continue to reach goals and make growth year after year. They care about their students and do everything they can to help them. In addition to the work they do during hte school day, they also head up our FCA group. They meet with these students weekly and plan activities for them. I feel Sue and Kim are very deserving of this award and are a great example of how much can be accomplished when two people work together for a common goal.